MarylandSB 03852026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

Public Health - Recommendations for Immunizations, Screenings, and Preventive Services - Pharmacist Administration and Required Health Insurance Coverage (The Vax Act)

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

6 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.

Childhood vaccines covered in wellness visits

Health plans must cover all visits and costs for childhood and teen vaccines that the CDC’s ACIP recommended on December 31, 2024. The Secretary of Health can update the list, and plans must follow those updates. The Commissioner may issue rules to carry this out. This requirement takes effect July 1, 2026.

No-cost preventive care follows state updates

Insurers must cover certain preventive services with no cost sharing when the Secretary of Health updates the list. Coverage starts for plan years that begin shortly after each new recommendation (either 3 months or 1 year, as stated in the law). Plans issued, delivered, or renewed on or after January 1, 2027 must comply. Enforcement begins July 1, 2026.

More vaccines at your pharmacy

Starting July 1, 2026, pharmacists can give flu and COVID shots to people age 3 and up. They can give many recommended vaccines to people age 7 and up, and adult travel vaccines. Pharmacists must follow written protocols, report to ImmuNet, complete a 20‑hour training, keep CPR current, and provide caregiver notices for minors.

State sets list of preventive care

The Secretary of Health publishes recommended vaccines, screenings, and other preventive services. The list follows major medical groups and federal guidance. For non‑vaccine services without a federal rating, the Secretary must allow at least 30 days for public comment and get a Health Care Commission analysis. The law takes effect July 1, 2026. The Governor signed the law on April 14, 2026.

New fees and CPR for vaccinating pharmacists

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Board of Pharmacy sets reasonable vaccine administration fees. Pharmacists who vaccinate must register, show a Board‑approved immunization course, and prove in‑person CPR training. These are new compliance steps for pharmacies and pharmacists.

Old pertussis rules removed from law

On July 1, 2026, Maryland repeals Health‑General §§18‑328 through 18‑332 and the section titled Part V. Pertussis. State agencies now follow the updated code without those pertussis‑specific rules.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Malcolm Augustine
Senate

Cosponsors

Pamela Beidle
Democratic • Senate
Kevin M. Harris
Democratic • Senate
Shelly Hettleman
Democratic • Senate
Cheryl C. Kagan
Democratic • Senate
Nancy J. King
Senate
Clarence K. Lam
Democratic • Senate
Karen Lewis Young
Democratic • Senate
Sara Love
Democratic • Senate
Craig J. Zucker
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 137 • No: 44

House vote • 4/7/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 105 • No: 32 • Other: 4

Senate vote • 3/23/2026